Project Description
Before you go
Ask yourself: will my dog be comfortable and happy on this trip? Some animals simply prefer to stay at home and a “homesick”, possibly motion-sick pet will ruin everyone’s trip. In such a case it’s probably wiser to leave your pet with a friend, relative or hire a “petsitter”. If that is not possible, you might consider boarding him or her at a clean, well run kennel.
Around the House
The following tips can help ensure that your pet enjoys a long, happy and accident-free life in your care.
- Screen windows to guard against falls.
- Don’t let young pets out on balconies, upper porches or high decks.
- Many house plants, including dieffenbachia, elephant ear, spider plants and more are
poisonous if eaten. Remove them or put them out of reach in hanging baskets. - Kittens love to chew when they’re teething, so unplug, remove or cover electrical cords.
- Don’t leave a room where a fire is lit or a space heater is being used unattended.
- Plastic bags may be fun to play with, but they can suffocate.
- If your pet can put something in his mouth, he probably will. Don’t leave small, sharp, easily
swallowed objects lying around.
- Cats enjoy naps near a warm engine so, before you drive off, honk your horn and make
sure your pet is not under or near the car. - Pets like the smell and taste of antifreeze and windshield washer. Tightly cover their
containers and wipe up any spills. - Paint, gasoline and other dangerous chemicals should be stored out of reach.
- Never leave burners or irons on unattended.
- Dangerous household chemicals such as bleach and ammonia should be stored out of your pet’s reach.
- Close washer and dryer lids – your pet might climb in and become trapped.
- Keep toilet lids down – small pets can actually drown if they fall in.
- Medicines, shampoo, suntan lotions and other personal care items can kill your pet. Make sure he can’t get hold of them.
- Some outdoor plants, like ivy and oleander, can be poisonous to pets.
- Keep pets away from lawns and gardens treated with chemicals.
- Store garden tools and chemicals securely. Keep garden sheds locked.
- Cover swimming pools and hot tubs – your pet might fall in and not be able to get out.
Wherever you go
Ensure your pet ALWAYS wears a collar with complete identification and a license tag. Microchipping with HomeAgain® is the way to ensure you will retrieve your animal should it be lost.
Pack his or her favorite food, toys, dishes, a cooler of water and a leash.
Have your pet examined and vaccinated, if necessary, by your veterinarian before a long trip.
If your pet must travel in a crate or carrier, be sure it is strong, large enough for him to stand up and turn around, has a place for food and water, is well ventilated, has a leak-proof bottom and closes securely.
Contact the consulate or embassy of your destination or ask your travel agent for advice if you are planning a trip abroad with your pet, as health and vaccination regulations vary greatly.
IMPORTANT: If your pet gets “motion sickness” check with your veterinarian for appropriate medication.